Understand stark realities

Playing host to the Expo and the Olympics alone does not guarantee China a developed nation status

The grand opening ceremony of the Shanghai Expo, complete with laser beams, fireworks and elegant costumed performers, have raised questions as to whether China is still a developing country or not. Media reports about the extravaganza, many clearly exaggerated, too have given the impression that prosperity has come to China.

Yet, as dazzling as they appear to be, these scenes of celebration cannot mask the harsh reality - that the majority live far more humbly than the impression conveyed of China by the gala Expo inaugural.